Rough Opal with Polished Face – Virgin Valley, Nevada
About This Specimen
This Virgin Valley opal specimen presents pale blue-white opal in irregular seams and patches through a textured tan-brown host. Its polished top reveals a smooth, softly lustrous opal area while the rough sides preserve the piece's natural character.
Specimen Details
- Mineral / Specimen Type: Rough opal mineral specimen with a polished top
- Locality: Virgin Valley, Nevada, United States
- Form & Structure: Massive, seam-like opal within earthy host material; polished upper surface and rough natural sides
- Color: Pale blue-white to milky opal against cream, tan, and brown host material
- Rarity: Uncommon as a locality specimen; opal itself is widespread, and no distinct play-of-color is visible in the photographs
- Mohs Hardness: 5.5–6.5
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous on the polished opal; dull to earthy on the rough exterior
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂·nH₂O
- Specimen Size: Toenail
- Dimensions: 2.6 × 1.8 × 2.3 cm
- Specimen Weight: 8.6 g — mineral specimen only
- Total / Display Weight: 55.4 g
About Opal
Opal is an amorphous, hydrated form of silica and is therefore classified as a mineraloid rather than a crystalline mineral. It typically has a Mohs hardness of 5.5–6.5 and the formula SiO₂·nH₂O; varieties range from common opal with soft body color to precious opal exhibiting play-of-color.
Traditional & Metaphysical Associations
In crystal and spiritual traditions, opal is associated with imagination, self-expression, reflection, and creative intention. This compact specimen may be appreciated as a symbolic meditation object or as a natural display piece. Metaphysical properties are based on traditional beliefs and are provided for cultural and informational purposes; they are not scientifically established or intended as medical advice.
Why This Specimen?
The contrast between the pale opal seams and weathered tan-brown exterior gives this small piece strong texture and locality interest. Its polished top provides a clear viewing window into the opal while retaining the rugged appearance of the original material.
Exact specimen pictured. You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photographs.